Michele's obituary
Michele Blanchard, born on March 9, 1962, cherished daughter, wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away on October 29, 2023. A woman of boundless kindness, compassion, and empathy, Michele's thoughtful and loving nature touched countless lives. Blessed with a crafty, gentle, silly, and sentimental personality, Michele brought joy and warmth to those around her.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Robert Blanchard; her daughter, Amanda Spraggins; her treasured sons, Justin Meritt, Robert Blanchard II, and Michael Blanchard; her caring sisters, Jan Biddle and Leslie Roma-Smith; her steadfast step-father, Jim Kennard; her supportive brother, Russel Blakeman; and her adored nine grandchildren. Michele was predeceased by her loving mother, Pat Kennard, and her father, Lowell Meritt.
Michele's favorite pastimes included exploring new historical sites around Arizona, taking peaceful walks around the zoo, and adventuring around the lakes woods up north. She had a strong appreciation for the simple pleasures life offered, such as savoring her favorite drinks - coffee and Pepsi. Michele's service to others was testimony to her giving spirit. She spent countless hours handcrafting gifts for her loved ones, such as crocheted blankets & scarves, birthday and holiday cards, home decor and much more, that will be forever cherished by her recipients. She was a supporter of causes she believed in, particularly St Jude Children’s Hospital, any donations are much appreciated.
Among the many lessons Michele imparted, being a prayer warrior for others battling health difficulties was one she championed passionately. Her faith served as a source of strength and guidance in her journey. In the final prayer she sent her daughter she asked, “Dear lord I come to you this afternoon asking you to lay a blanket of blessings on my children. Give them peace of heart and mind knowing you have their back that you have made the right people available to them and their families to help heal and get them through rough times. There’s nothing needing done that they have to do other than thank you and be good to themselves. Life is fragile and to be handled with prayer. In your name and I thank you, Amen💕”
Today, we remember Michele, not only for the invaluable lessons she imparted but for the woman she was - loving, caring, and wholly unforgettable.
Friends and family are invited to attend a Reception for Michele on November 11, 2023, following the service at 1638 W Bedford St. Earlier in the day, a Funeral service will be held for Michele at 12 PM at Mesa Cemetery. It is a time for us to come together, to share our memories of Michele, and to celebrate the loving life she led.